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Summer 2010
villanova university
Hands-On Learning Engineering for Life Sustainability: Servant Leaders Policy and Practice G10-08207_SummerMag:Layout 1 6/15/10 3:52 PM Page 2
Summer 2010
Drosdick Endowed Dean of Engineering Contents Dr. Gary A. Gabriele Message from the Dean 1 Director of External Relations Burton H. Lane
Writer and Editor Hands-On Learning 2 Carly Keeny The College’s new First-Year Curriculum, among the Writers most innovative freshman engineering experiences in Debbie Clayton the country, hinges on experiential multidisciplinary Christopher Murray learning.
Designer Peter Volz Design
Photo Credits Sustainability: Policy and Practice 5 With the launch of the new master’s degree program in Aurora Imaging Company: sustainable engineering – among the first in the country – pages 1-4; students with solar panel, p. 7; and the Villanova Center for the Advancement of Dr. Noelle Comolli with student, p. 9; Sustainability in Engineering, the College puts the University’s Dr. Qianhong Wu with students and commitment to sustainability into practice for students. Dr. Rosalind Wynne, p. 11
Havener, Lauren: Student with child p. 13; p. 14; and bottom photo, p. 15 Engineering for Life 8 Johnston, Barbara: cover; p. 5; The field of bioengineering is growing in popularity and graduate students, p. 7; importance. The College’s Cellular and Molecular Dr. Jens Karlsson, p. 9; Bioengineering Research Group discovers new ways to Dr. Metin Duran and graduate student, p. 10 improve quality of life. Kotter, Rory: p. 12; group shots p. 13 ; and top photo, p. 15
Nogueras, Paola: Dr. William Kelly and student, p. 8; Dr. Ani Ural and student, p. 10 Servant Leaders 12 Welsh, John: Dr. Robert Traver, p. 6; pages 16-19 Engineering students put their technical skills to use to help communities in developing countries in Latin America.
Questions or Comments Send to [email protected]
Address Updates Life-Saving Solar Solutions 16 Send to [email protected] Engineering faculty and students help expand the impact of the Solar Suitcase News & Events Visit www.Engineering.Villanova.edu Under the Sea 18 Underwater robotics competition held at Villanova steers kids toward engineering On the Cover: Dr. Metin Duran, Associate Professor of Connect with the College of Engineering 20 Civil and Environmental Engineering, and 10 easy ways to strengthen your ties to the College Lauren Glose CE ’11 in the Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology Laboratory G10-08207_SummerMag:Layout 1 6/15/10 10:29 AM Page 3
Message from the Dean
Not long ago, Villanova’s College of Engineering articulated its goal to become a premier engineering program in the country, while maintaining the University’s Catholic values.
In pursuing this goal, the College committed to a five-year strategic plan for achieving our chief aspirations to build a reputation for innovative curricula, teaching, and research, and to lead in the development of intellectual and humanitarian engineers. Concurrently, we resolved to measure our success against these goals by the success of our alumni and the view of our peers. After just three years of progress, we have made great strides toward fulfilling many of our goals: • At the College level, we’ve increased the diversity of our student body and faculty, with a goal to exceed national averages for underrepresented groups in engineering. We have added new opportunities for students and faculty to develop unique STEM education experiences for middle and high school students in our community. We have also strengthened ties to alumni and industry partners, whose ongoing committment continues to open doors for our students. This fall, we’ll introduce yet another way to connect our students with the professional engineering community – a state-of-the-art Multidisciplinary Design Laboratory. • In Undergraduate Studies, we successfully completed the inaugural year of our new First-Year Curriculum, among the most innovative freshman engineering experiences in the country. Our departments now offer revised curricula to allow for more electives and minors – including the new bioengineering minor (developed with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences) and the entrepreneurship minor (through collaboration with the Villanova School of Business). We’ve also increased participation in summer research experiences and internships. • In Graduate Studies and Research, we’ve reinvigorated our master’s of science degree programs and launched one of the nation’s first M.S. degree programs in sustainable engineering. We’ve solidified the foundation for Ph.D. studies, which is growing quickly, with nearly 30 candidates currently enrolled. And finally, we’ve launched a new multidisciplinary research center – the Villanova Center for the Advancement of Sustainability in Engineering. Read on to see how these strategic initiatives came to life in the 2009-2010 academic year. We’re pleased with the progress we’ve made but look forward to addressing the challenges that remain and to aligning our goals with the University’s new strategic plan. To read more about the College’s achievements or University’s strategic plan, visit www.Villanova.edu. Sincerely,
Gary A. Gabriele, PhD Drosdick Endowed Dean of the College of Engineering
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HANDS-ON LEARNING New First-Year Curriculum Promotes Experiential Education by Debbie Clayton
Before Ian Dardani arrived at Villanova as a freshman engineering student last fall, he was pretty sure he’d decided Freshman students worked in teams on multidisciplinary projects, including one focused on the aerodynamics of which engineering discipline was right vehicles, reducing drag, and saving energy. for him. But halfway through second Dardani credits his decision largely engineering. Just being around so many semester, he changed his mind. Now, to the new hands-on First-Year Curriculum different kinds of professors really gave me a he’s confident that mechanical program at the College of Engineering. The good feel for what each discipline does.” engineering holds a future for him. program requires freshmen to participate in The brainchild of Dr. Gerard (Jerry) Jones, two seven-week mini projects by mid second Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, semester. By exposing students to multiple and a multidisciplinary faculty committee, disciplines within each project, the new pro - the new First-Year Curriculum evolved from a gram strives to solidify career paths earlier in similar program Dr. Jones championed as a the college experience. mechanical engineering professor in the early “I think this is definitely a good direction,” 1990s. Designed for mechanical engineering says Dardani, who participated in engineering sophomores, the earlier hands-on program fairs and learned technical drawing and Auto - emphasized reverse engineering. For various CAD software during high school in Syracuse, reasons, the first program ended, but Dr. Jones N.Y. “I elected to do the SMARTBEAM never stopped dreaming of a workable experi - project second semester and found the math ential learning model. and science behind it very satisfying. It “I knew that hands-on – or what we call incorporated civil, mechanical, and electrical experiential – learning worked well with
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The Engineering Gene
Engineering blood runs deep in Maureen McManus’s family in Harrison, N.Y. Her father is an engineer and both of her older sisters are engineering students. “My mom’s an English teacher, but I didn’t get those genes,” she jokes. Knowing that she, too, wanted to be an engineer, McManus chose Villanova Univer - sity for its small class sizes and its wide variety of labs. But she didn’t expect the new First-Year Curriculum program when she started as a freshman in 2009. “It’s much better working in the labs and talking one-on-one with the professors than just sitting in the classroom,” she says. Student teams built dialysis filter units for “The Artificial Kidney” project. “I know students who really weren’t sure what type of engineering they wanted to do. educating engineers,” explains Dr. Jones, have faith and sit in the corner until sophomore who has been at Villanova for 23 years, six year, the new program engages them in their This way, they got to test out what they of them as Chair of the Department of first semester.” liked before making the decision.” Mechanical Engineering and the last three as McManus, on the other hand, knew she Associate Dean. “We wanted to build hands- Core Course and Mini Projects wanted to go into mechanical engineering on, multidisciplinary projects into the fresh - Breaking the two-semester sequence into four before arriving at Villanova. Her two mini man curriculum wherever we could. At the parts, the new program begins with a core projects – aerodynamics and acoustics – same time, students need some basic funda - course the first quarter. “It starts with lecture simply confirmed that choice. “The new mentals before they start working on projects. but then every week students do a micro proj - program is amazing!” she adds. Otherwise, all they’d be doing is tinkering – ect on a number of multidisciplinary topics,” not that tinkering is bad, but it’s not an adds Dr. Jones, who continues to do research effective learning tool.” and teach mechanical engineering. “Students getting into the lab,” he says. “They really Villanova’s College of Engineering reten - usually worked on micro projects outside the relished that they got to build things. They tion figures – defined as those remaining in classroom. For example, they studied momen - actually made concrete and cut beams for the engineering after freshman year –average an tum and vectors utilizing pool balls at the acoustics project. Getting them that excited impressive 90 percent, compared to roughly Connelly Center pool table. They had a lot of about engineering was very rewarding to me.” 70 percent at other engineering programs. fun with that one!” Roughly 12 faculty members were in - However, in addition to maintaining high Mini projects took place the second half of volved in the program. At the end of each retention numbers, the new curriculum pro - the fall and first half of the spring semesters. project, the students presented technical gram endeavors to maintain underrepresented Students selected one of six multidisciplinary groups, such as women, minorities, interna - projects, switching to a different project second tional students, and those challenged due semester. Projects included: to lack of high school experience. Surveys indicate that these students tend to transition • Application of Acoustic Technologies out of engineering in greater numbers than for Predicting Structural Failure their fellow students. • Experimental Evaluation of a SMARTBEAM “Many students come to us with high • Robotics and MATLAB Programming school experience in robotics and various software packages,” explains Stephen Konyk, • Electric Car Design Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer • The Artificial Kidney – Improving Dialysis Engineering. “Previously, we were taking • Aerodynamics of Vehicles – Reducing them right into the classroom and grinding Drag, Saving Energy them with mathematics and engineering fundamentals. But the newer students don’t Dr. David Dinehart, Professor of Civil and work that way. They need a reason and a Environmental Engineering and Director of the motivation to buy into education. We really Structural Engineering Teaching and Research needed to find a better way of challenging Lab, taught the acoustics and SMARTBEAM them early on. Rather than telling them to projects. “Students were most excited about Dr. Gerard Jones, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies 3 G10-08207_SummerMag:Layout 1 6/15/10 10:29 AM Page 6
Hands-On Learning continued
Planning by Committee
Planning for the new First-Year Curriculum began in January 2008. Dr. Jerry Jones helmed the committee of five faculty Students applied lessons learned from the core course to their multidisciplinary projects. members:
papers, participated in competitions, or gave a benefited from the new program. Dr. Dinehart • James O’Brien, Assistant Professor of poster presentation. “By the end of those three felt he learned a lot from working with other Mechanical Engineering quarters, students had done one core course and faculty members he’d previously not encoun - two mini projects,” says Dr. Jones. “Then, in tered day-to-day. Konyk enjoyed engendering • Dr. Joseph Yost, Associate Professor of the middle of spring semester, they selected excitement in the students. “They’d stay up all Civil and Environmental Engineering their majors.” The last seven-week session was night – even over the weekend – to work on • Dr. Frank Mercede, Assistant Professor of spent studying in the chosen disciplinary field. some of the projects,” he says. With a successful pilot year complete, the Electrical and Computer Engineering Sharpening Communication Skills faculty plans to regroup for future planning for • Edward Char, Instructor, Electrical and One of the things Dr. Dinehart and his the program. “One of the tasks we’re currently Computer Engineering colleagues set out to accomplish with their addressing is how to evolve the new program projects was to improve their students’ over the next two years,” explains Dr. Jones. • Dr. Randy Weinstein, Professor and Chair communications skills. They devoted one “However, we don’t want to make many of the Department of Chemical Engineering lecture to making a formal presentation, changes yet. It would be rash on our part to including PowerPoint development and reach conclusions based on one year of data.” After writing a request for proposals to the transferring technical information to a poster. Still, Dr. Jones and his colleagues plan to College, the committee encouraged faculty Another lecture focused on putting together make a few tweaks for next year. Though the members and members of the College’s a technical report, covering figures, text, mini projects will remain the same, they may research centers to submit ideas for mini and tables. At the end of the semester, the introduce an alternate one on micro hydroelec - projects. The Center for Advanced Communi - freshmen participated in a poster presentation tric power. In addition, they are considering attended by administrators, faculty, graduate adding an honors section to the initial core cations proposed the acoustics project students, and upperclassmen. course. But based on feedback so far, the and the Center for Nonlinear Dynamics and “I was amazed at the quality of their program is a resounding success with both Control suggested the robotics project. Groups presentations – the results were far above students and faculty. of faculty members submitted the other four what your typical freshmen could do,” notes “The new curriculum is light years ahead of projects. Each was evaluated and funded the Dr. Dinehart. “My seniors and graduate what we were doing before,” Konyk notes. summer before first semester 2009. students who came to the poster session said “We still have to refine what we’re doing and ‘oh wow, we wish we’d gotten a chance to assess the process in terms of impact on the do that as freshmen!’” students and faculty. But my gut feeling tells But the students weren’t the only ones who me this curriculum is a good thing.”
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SUSTAINABILITY: POLICY AND PRACTICE
“You discover the Earth’s springing energy, its amazing beauty, its most excellent potency... to praise your Creator you make the Earth’s cry your own.”
—St. Augustine, Enarratio in Psalmum 144.13
by Christopher Murray
Villanova’s commitment to sustainabil - ity is rooted in Augustinian values and can be seen as far back as 1970 when students and faculty embraced the inaugural Earth Day. Four decades later, environmental sustainability continues to be part of the fabric of Justin Yeash ChE ’09 is among the first students to pursue the new master’s of science degree in sustainable engineering. the University community, evidenced Perhaps nowhere is that more apparent “There are social, political, and economic by the implementation of a Campus than within the College of Engineering. sides to sustainability, along with the ever- Environmental Sustainability Policy, important engineering issues,” says Dr. Master’s of Science in Sustainable Weinstein. “We are taking a multidisciplinary pledging the University to sustainable Engineering approach through all our engineering depart - practices. The College of Engineering recently launched ments. Our solutions are not discipline- a master’s degree program in sustainable engi - specific, as we are looking at ways to improve neering to better position students for success renewable energy, decrease resource usage, In addition, Father Peter M. Donohue in the ever-changing professional landscape. and provide access to clean water all at the reaffirmed this campus-wide mission in “We are not just keeping up with the times; same time.” 2007 by signing the American College and we are setting the times,” explains Dr. Randy Faculty members in each engineering University Presidents’ Climate Commit - Weinstein, Chair of the Department of discipline are bringing their research into ment, which strives to make Villanova a Chemical Engineering and director of the new the classroom, using campus as the primary climate-neutral campus. degree program. “That is the key to a successful laboratory and demonstration model. Most importantly, these beliefs are future in a global society that is rapidly “In White Hall, we are monitoring energy, manifesting themselves in tangible prac - evolving.” water usage and temperature, and analyzing tices, including the University’s designation While acknowledging the critical need for why costs are what they are; at the end of our as an arboretum with 1,500 trees of 250 renewable resources is important, understand - analysis, we may implement changes based different species, green buildings and ing the engineering implications and taking on the findings,” adds Dr. Weinstein. roofs, and recently hosted environmental action to help address technical problems and The program is flexible, offering classes conferences. More and more, sustainability improve the planet is paramount. The launch on campus and online, allowing full- and is an integral component of campus of this program epitomizes the College’s part-time students to pursue a full degree or infrastructure, curricula, events, and the leadership in this growing field, which is graduate certificate, with or without a thesis University’s growing research strengths. woven through all engineering disciplines. option. It is designed for a broad range of
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Sustainabilty continued
Dr. Robert Traver, Director of VCASE, connects research into sustainability with the features of Villanova’s campus, such as the wetlands located alongside the Structural Education Teaching and Research Lab.
students and professionals, including those disciplines: economics, politics, ethics, and This field and Villanova’s degree program just completing their undergraduate work, as environmental studies. will continue to grow and evolve. “The courses well as accomplished engineers. “In sustainable engineering, you are trained in 10 years could be different than today,” says “This degree is for people striving to be to examine all externalities and recognize the Dr. Weinstein. “Problems and complexities their best and those who want to make changes downstream implications of a company’s change, and so will we; we can’t teach about for the better,” adds Dr. Weinstein. “People operations,” says Yeash. “It’s not about ways to problems of the past with solutions of the past.” with MBAs and other master’s of science make new energy, but rather, ways to use the The degree is also a great way for alumni to degrees are coming back because of the energy we already have more efficiently.” get involved in the program. relevance of the subject matter.” According to Yeash, the engineer who is “Our hope is to set up fellowships and The courses aren’t focused solely on engineer - focused on sustainability looks at whole systems undergraduate scholarships,” concludes ing topics. and the interconnectedness of decisions. “For Dr. Weinstein, “and alumni working in various “One of the courses we teach is a social example, how can a company make its supply fields can help give students the opportunities economics course, co-taught by professors of chain more efficient and use less energy to to advance themselves.” business, philosophy, and engineering,” says Dr. transport the same amount of goods?” These opportunities can help students take Weinstein. “We recognize this is not just about Right now, major corporations are commit - their passion to the next level. engineering solutions, but rather, engineering ting themselves to sustainability, and not just “Villanova offers me ‘ultimate life integra - as part of the bigger picture of sustainability.” to save the planet. “The bottom line of sustain - tion,’ where I can focus my loves into a career at ability is efficiency,” adds Yeash, “and efficiency an institution that is committed to maintaining Attracted to Integration saves money. It is a win-win situation.” its Catholic identity, while expanding its It was this holistic approach that attracted research capabilities.” Faith and Work Villanova alumnus and current College of VCASE Engineering graduate student Justin Yeash “It is very unique that I, as an engineering ChE ’09 to the degree program. student, can dialogue so easily with the head This evolution of the engineering profession has “I feel a need to care for the Earth,” says Yeash, of mission and ministry at Villanova and also led to the creation of the Villanova Center “and I came to Villanova because of the unique incorporate those values into my work,” says for the Advancement of Sustainability in opportunity to attend a Catholic school, where Yeash. “Theology and sustainability are deeply Engineering (VCASE), which houses multidis - there is an integration of faith and studies, part connected, and I love the opportunity to bring ciplinary research and teaching on campus in of which is responsibility for the environment.” these two disciplines together in my work, areas including alternative and renewable Yeash further explains his interest in sustain - while having a profound impact on people energy, environmental sustainability, and able engineering because it encompasses many and the environment.” watershed and infrastructure management.
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Justin Yeash ChE ’09 and Amanda DelCore are pursuing the M.S. in sustainable engineering.
Complementing the tangible work on campus, VCASE frequently hosts industry and community outreach activities. Last fall, the Center hosted a smart grid symposium, which covered a diverse range of topics for approximately 150 faculty, students, and professionals who engaged in quality VCASE research focuses on alternative/renewable energy, environmental sustainability, and watershed and infrastructure management. dialogue on the changing dynamics of the “We are looking at ways to reduce man’s solar electrical system that provides energy. electric grid system and the evolution of impact on the planet,” says Dr. Pritpal Singh, intelligent appliances. A two-day seminar on • Fedigan Hall’s geothermal energy and Chair of the Department of Electrical and stormwater held every two years attracted LED lighting systems are saving energy and Computer Engineering and the solar energy nearly 300 attendees in 2009. lowering costs. expert of the group. “We want to use resources VCASE also reaches out to other disciplines more efficiently to minimize fossil fuels and • Porous paving and rain gardens around by holding seminars on campus for students and move toward renewable alternatives such as campus allow water to infiltrate the soil, faculty, demonstrating sustainability expertise higher-efficiency, low-cost solar cells.” reducing damaging runoff to the Darby and and opportunities. “We created VCASE because it no longer Mill Creek Watersheds. “I am very proud of the willingness of faculty makes sense for engineers to work as individu- to come together and create this tremendous als,” adds Dr. Robert Traver, Professor of Civil “Research is the experimental process of opportunity for our students and the University,” and Environmental Engineering and Director looking at new ideas,” adds Dr. Traver, “and says Dr. Traver. “There are natural partnerships of VCASE. “Sustainability needs to be inclusive, our campus is the best laboratory to conduct with nursing, business, and law to fully round not exclusive, and engineers need to look at these experiments and examine these ideas.” out the educational impact of VCASE.” multiple components of situations they are asked According to Dr. Traver, in today’s academic “Moving forward, our hope is to expand to address; everything is multidisciplinary.” environment, the university infrastructure our reach to include other universities and Sustainable engineering practices can already should be a place to do research and apply build partnerships with engineering firms be seen in many projects to which the College what is learned. “Overall, there is more green and manufacturing organizations,” Dr. Traver of Engineering lends its expertise and support: research and coordination happening on continues. “Potentially, we could develop new campus, which is introducing students to new technologies and commercialize them,” adds • Stormwater sustainability has long been a technologies,” adds Dr. Traver. “Our Facilities Dr. Singh. focus at Villanova. The campus master plan Department is part of the educational process, “Industry knows what industry needs and offers more opportunity to advance and analyze and everyone benefits from that.” is very interested in the next generation of the impact of a green infrastructure approach Because of the active research on campus, employees,” concludes Dr. Traver. “Therefore, to stormwater management across the entire there is equipment in place that can be used they have a vested interest in supporting campus. to teach. “It gives us an opportunity to really education in sustainable engineering.” • In addition, the Center for Engineering bring students in and give them practical As St. Augustine said, “to seek the highest Education and Research (CEER) has a green experience,” says Dr. Traver. “VCASE research good is to live well.” At the College of Engi- roof, which not only supports vegetation, but supports the curricula, allowing students to neering, living this Augustinian ideal means also has thermal properties, naturally insulating apply theory and principles learned in the a tradition of service to, and care for, one’s the building. CEER also boasts a 4 kilowatt classroom,” adds Dr. Singh. community every day. 7 G10-08207_SummerMag:Layout 1 6/15/10 10:29 AM Page 10
ENGINEERING FOR LIFE Villanova’s Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Research Group Discovers New Ways to Improve Quality of Life
by Carly Keeny
According to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), if the 20th century’s greatest engineering achievements revolutionized the way we live, work, travel, and communicate, then the 21st century demands a dual engineering commitment to advancing society and
improving the overall quality of life. Dr. William Kelly (left) in the Biotechnology Lab Sherrie-Ann Martin ChE ’09 (left) worked with Dr. Noelle Comolli
Together with the National Science grant, which opened in 2009 and allows for the systems used to create materials for Foundation, the NAE established a global scientific exploration at the gene level). Along Merck products. committee of engineering experts to identify with their undergraduate and graduate students, Today, Dr. Kelly focuses on research that the top engineering priorities of the 21st cen - the group conducts research projects that, can help pharmaceutical companies grow cells tury. When the group unveiled its final list of although varied, hold the promise of a positive that improve drug performance and refine the “Grand Challenges for Engineering” in 2008, impact on living systems. systems required to purify products. “My nearly half were initiatives that require the experience at Merck has absolutely informed Improving Biopharmaceutical incorporation of bioengineering techniques. my work here at Villanova,” says Dr. Kelly. Processes As bioengineering continues to evolve as a This experience has also made him an ideal central component for societal advancement, With more than 20 years of experience in partner for a number of sponsored research Villanova students and faculty are well-poised bioprocessing, Dr. William Kelly, Associate projects conducted in his Biotechnology to contribute meaningfully to the way new Professor of Chemical Engineering, has spent his Laboratory on behalf of Eli Lilly; Centocor, medicines are developed and delivered, Inc.; and GlaxoSmithKline, in addition to his chronic health issues are diagnosed and former employer, Merck. “The research I have done in treated, water supplies are purified, and new This year, Dr. Kelly secured a two-year, research breakthroughs are discovered thanks bioengineering at Villanova $50,000 grant from GlaxoSmithKline to help in part to the College of Engineering’s has allowed me to gain the the company optimize chromatography, the Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering experience I needed in order process by which molecules used to make a Research Group. to land a full-time position in drug are extracted from cells. “This work is This multidisciplinary research group tied to a real drug in their pipeline, and the the pharmaceutical industry.” includes faculty experts in mechanical, civil outcome could affect what protein purification and environmental, electrical, and chemical –– Stefanie McDermott ChE ’10 strategy is chosen for large-scale manufactur - engineering who share resources and informa - ing,” says Dr. Kelly. Stefanie McDermott tion, learn from one another, and maintain the career at the intersection of biology and ChE ’10 helped kick off the project, which College’s new state-of-the-art Core Genomics engineering. Dr. Kelly came to Villanova via will include computer modeling and Laboratory (funded by a National Science pharmaceutical giant Merck and Company, experimentation. Foundation Major Research Instrumentation where he developed vaccines and improved In addition, Dr. Kelly has also helped
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(right) as an undergraduate student to research drug delivery improvements. Dr. Jens Karlsson in the Biothermal Sciences Laboratory
pharmaceutical companies grow CHO cells, drugs and applied directly inside the body which secrete antibodies beneficial to humans, “Through the Department after surgery, and developing microparticles and then separate the protein desired for of Chemical Engineering, I that can be added to cancer drug therapies to medicines. He is also working with plasmids ex - target tumors directly. have been exposed to aspects tracted from E. coli bacteria, which can be loaded with genetic material for gene therapy drugs. of bioengineering that I didn’t Preserving Cells and Tissue know existed, and I have been In the Biothermal Sciences Laboratory, Dr. Improving Drug Delivery able to discover my real passion.” Jens Karlsson, Associate Professor of Mechani - Having grown up with asthma, Dr. Noelle –– Olivia Donaldson ChE ’10 cal Engineering, and his team investigate the Comolli, Assistant Professor of Chemical effect of extreme temperatures on living Engineering, knows the importance of having systems. A current focus of the laboratory is to an effective drug treatment to manage an “When inflamed, lung cells present recep - develop novel strategies for cryopreservation of attack. Unfortunately, about 25 percent of tors for albuterol, which normally attaches to cells and tissue. If perfected, cryopreservation asthmatics don’t respond to traditional cells and signals the stop of inflammation,” says technology will open the door for mass pro - treatments of steroids or albuterol. This non- Dr. Comolli. “For those who don’t respond duction of tissue-engineered medical products response can be life-threatening. traditionally, we’re trying to target that same used in organ and tissue transplantation. In her Biomaterials and Drug Delivery Lab - cell receptor with albuterol on the outside of a “Outside the body, living tissues can only oratory, Dr. Comolli improves drug perform - particle so it will still attach, but inside, the last for a few hours before the cells begin to ance and delivery by engineering existing particle will contain enough Vitamin D to die,” says Dr. Karlsson. “Because cryogenic medicines to work efficiently in a different stop the inflammation.” Her goal is to deliver temperatures can provide a shelf life of many dosage, release differently over time, reduce side these particles in a traditional liquid inhaler years, the development of successful cryop - effects, or target specific problems. Currently in or nebulizer. reservation techniques for cells and tissue collaboration with a medical doctor from Penn In addition, Dr. Comolli is also working on would make possible manufacturing of Medicine, Dr. Comolli and graduate student designing nanoparticles to add to drugs that tissue-engineered organs on a commercially Matt Scionti ChE ’09 are developing a new can speed axon growth after spinal cord injury, viable scale.” asthma treatment that will deliver a high dose developing biodegradable thin film deliveries Dr. Karlsson received a three-year, of Vitamin D directly to inflamed lung cells. that can be loaded with anti-inflammatory $280,000 grant from the National Science
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Engineering for Life continued
Susan Mischinski ME ’10 (left) works with Dr. Ani Ural (right) on microlevel bone research. Dr. Metin Duran (left) and graduate student Yasemin Dilsad Yilmazel research waste conversion in the Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology Lab. of bone to see how they impact osteoporosis. Ural. Susan Mischinski ME ’10, who worked “Villanova has some of the most Wrist and hip bones are different sizes and on micro level bone research as an undergradu - shapes, but they share the same make-up and ate, will conduct the next phase of research advanced technology in the structure at the macro level. Studies show that under Dr. Ural’s direction when she returns to bioengineering field and offers if a person suffers a low-energy hip or spine Villanova this summer as a graduate student. all students an opportunity to fracture, he/she likely suffered a Colles’ frac - Incorporating Biomimicry work with it.” ture, or a break in the wrist at the radius, about 10 years prior. –– Kathleen Bommer ME ’11 For Dr. Qianhong Wu, Assistant Professor of “We want to predict the Colles’ fracture to Mechanical Engineering, discoveries made from prevent eventual fracture in the hip and spine,” the human body have the potential to impact Founda tion to study how ice crystals damage says Dr. Ural, who uses a computational model the human experience. cells during the freezing process. He is using a Dr. Wu works to understand the role of the unique high-speed imaging cryomicroscope to endothelial glycocalyx layer (EGL), which coats detect ice formation in tissue-engineered en - “Under the guidance of Dr. Wu, the surface of all microvessels. This layer is dothelial constructs, made using cells from the my fellow lab members and I critical because damage to it contributes to lining of blood vessels. have turned our lab into one conditions like type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, Dr. Karlsson is also collaborating with Dr. and other cardiovascular diseases. of the premier consolidating Angela DiBenedetto, Associate Professor of “We’ve discovered the EGL’s role as a lubrica - Biology, to develop cryopreservation methods porous medium labs in the tor for the motion of blood cells in a capillary. for zebrafish embryos – an important animal country.” Now, we want to understand the mechanotrans - model for research in genetics and development. –– Robert Crawford, graduate research assistant duction mechanism via the layer – its role as a Because they are so popular for biological re - sensor for communicating what’s going on out - search, scientists have produced so many genetic side t he endothelial cells,” says Dr. Wu. In the variations that it is becoming impossible to to predict the level of load that will cause frac - Cellular Biomechanics and Sport Science Labora - maintain the fish stock required to preserve each ture. Next, she hopes to incorporate CT scan tory, Dr. Wu is working with a team of graduate genetic strain. “If you can cryopreserve the images from real patients to determine which and undergraduate students to expose human embryos, you can easily store zebrafish strains load might cause fracture, based on the pa - umbilical vein endothelial cells to fluid flow with until they are needed, at which time the em - tient's age, bone geometry and material, as different conditions to determine response. bryos can be thawed and allowed to develop into well as the fall type and wrist position. Dr. Wu also employs biomimicry to apply live fish,” says Dr. Karlsson, who is assisted by At the micro level, Dr. Ural explores bone biology-based lessons from microcirculation to a Kathleen Bommer ME ’11 on this project. microstructures (osteons, cement lines, and new concept called “super lubrication.” “What pores) to determine the impact of microcracks. Identifying Fracture Risk we learn from the human body can be developed “We want to understand how microstructures into something used in everyday life,” says Dr. Dr. Ani Ural, Assistant Professor of Mechanical change over time, at different ages, and how Wu. “We’re working on a ‘super lubricator’ for Engineering, applies new ways of identifying those changes – and their ability to withstand machinery that completely eliminates friction, fracture risk to different hierarchical structures microcracks – affect the overall bone,” says Dr. which by extension, also reduces heat genera -
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Dr. Qianhong Wu and his students have developed a renowned porous medium lab. Dr. Rosalind Wynne, Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering
that allow microorganisms to convert waste into systems, airflow, and the human body. methane or ethanol and use that information to “I want to use fibers to develop spectroscopy “It is a wonderful feeling going optimize those processes,” says Dr. Duran. techniques that enhance the ‘state-of-the-art’ for into some of the undergraduate During the wastewater treatment process, devices that environmentalists and the health - courses already having a knowl - about 50 percent of what’s treated becomes a care community use to detect pathogens, edge of different experimental byproduct, which goes directly to the landfill. proteins, or chemicals in the samples they processes and machinery “If you can tie the production of energy to waste measure,” says Dr. Wynne. material, it’s an ideal solution,” says Dr. Duran. For example, an environmentalist seeking because of my work in the lab.” This year, Dr. Duran secured a one-year, the presence of E. coli bacteria in water will –– Lauren Glose CE ’11 $26,000 grant from a local company hoping to apply tags to the sample that glow in the enter the renewable energy area. “We’re trying presence of the bacteria. Fibers improve the to find ways to increase the natural microbial collection of light fluorescence used to monitor tion, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas activity that converts byproduct into ethanol,” the tags and allow the same sensitivity of emissions.” he says. detection with smaller sample sizes of materials. For this work, a team of graduate and under - Dr. Duran has secured more than $250,000 To determine water quality, Dr. Wynne graduate students have built several unique ex - in funding from the Philadelphia Water hopes to build a fiber-based portable, handheld perimental setups designed to characterize the Department over the last two years. Two recent device that can be used by the government, permeability of various soft porous materials, projects are related to “energy from waste water treatment facilities, or the military for measure lift generation during rapid compres - concept” with a total budget of nearly $90,000. field work. She also sees the potential to sion, and monitor the friction as a planing “Naturally-occurring methanogens digest develop similar devices that the medical surface glides over them. Dr. Wu and his team biosolids, the organic matter present in waste - community can use to detect chemicals that hope to apply the fundamentals learned to the water,” says Dr. Duran. “We put these microbes are markers for diseases. development of functionalized nano-porous ma - into an engineered system designed to optimize terials that can be used as a soft porous bearing the digestion process, which results in methane Meeting the Challenge with greatly reduced friction and infinite life. gas, a resource the water department hopes to One hundred years from now, a future generation Developing Alternative Energy harness.” The team is also looking into convert - of engineers will outline the top engineering ing “scum,” the fats and oils collected during challenges for the 22nd century. Almost cer - “Waste not, want not” is a way of life in the the wastewater treatment process, into methane tainly, their decisions will involve a thorough Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnol - as well. analysis of how well the 21st century’s engineers ogy Laboratory, where Dr. Metin Duran, met their chief challenges. The work of the Detecting Chemicals with Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Research Fiber Optics Engineering, and members of his research Group and the students they work with will be group convert wastewater byproducts into Dr. Rosalind Wynne, Associate Professor of woven into that fabric of accomplishment. For alternative energy. Electrical Engineering, is applying her expertise more information on undergraduate, graduate, “The Core Genomics Laboratory gives us the in fiber optics to improve technology used to and faculty research at the College of Engineer - ability to understand the genetic mechanisms identify the presence of chemicals in water ing, visit www.Engineering.Villanova.edu.
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SERVANT LEADERS Engineering Students Lead by Putting Others First by Carly Keeny
When former AT&T executive Robert Greenleaf published his 1970 essay “The Servant as Leader,” he introduced a new concept in leadership that “begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve…first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead...[it] mani - fests itself in the care taken...to make sure that other people’s highest priority needs are being served.” Forty years later, a similar leadership style permeates the College of Engineer - ing, where students play key roles in groups that put the needs of their global neighbors first.
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Approximately 100 students have worked at the site, where projects have included a 30'x60' chapel and volunteer center, a school complex, and a 25-foot cross that symbolizes hope. This year’s group also included Dr. Bridget Wadzuk, Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Dr. Andrea Welker, Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering. • In Torti, Panama, 10 mechanical In Waslala, Nicaragua, engineering students provided design services to establish reliable, clean drinking water for the local community. engineering students worked on a water sup - ply intake dam and reservoir expansion project Far and Away and provided design services for a water distri - Each year, dozens of engineering from springs in the surrounding mountains to bution system. In Panama, the College collab - students forgo a Spring Break spent the villages below for reliable, clean drinking orates with Father Wally Kasuboski, who runs on the beach in favor of time spent on service- water. Annual service trips to Waslala began in the local Capuchan Mission dedicated to im - learning trips to remote villages in Latin 2004, and to date, more than 60 students have proving conditions for local communities. America, where basic resources are scarce. participated. This year’s group also included This year’s trip also included Dr. Gerard Jones, What may start with a slight case of culture Dr. Gabriele; Dr. Alfonso Ortega, Associate Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies; shock eventually becomes a transformational Dean for Graduate Studies and Research; experience for many students, who not only and James O’Brien, Assistant Professor of hone their technical skills, but also make Mechanical Engineering. connections to local communities, broaden • On the 11th annual trip to the Amigos their worldviews, and sharpen their de Jesus orphanage in Poses Verdes, leadership skills. Honduras, 16 civil and environmental “During the week you can see a gradual engineering students tackled the first water change in the students’ feelings about being in resource project in trip history – as well as a a third world country. When they first arrive, basketball court. For 10 years, students have de - you can see a wide range of emotions, from signed and built much-needed facilities for the shock, to wonderment, and sometimes to orphanage, which serves more than 50 children. pity,” says Dr. Gary Gabriele, Drosdick Endowed Dean of the College of Engineering, who has for the past three years joined the trip to Waslala, Nicaragua. “But as they work through the week, you can see their attitudes change to respect for how hard the people work, gratitude and amazement at how friendly and generous they are, and a real sense of respect for how they make a life for them - selves in such difficult situations.” This year, students fanned out to Nicaragua, Honduras, and Panama to improve local water resources. • In Waslala, Nicaragua, 10 students from a variety of disciplines provided engineering design services to connect water Engineering students and Dean Gary Gabriele in Waslala Engineering students have provided services to Amigos de Jesus orphanage in Poses Verdes, Honduras for 11 years.
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Servant Leaders continued
Civil and environmental engineering students developed a water filtration system and built a basketball court at Amigos de Jesus orphanage in Honduras.
Dr. Edward Glynn, Assistant Professor of Civil Maggie Carragher CE ’11, who spent her considerations of working in a different culture.” and Environmental Engineering; and alumnus second consecutive Spring Break in Honduras. Meanwhile, a changing work scope in Dan Lutz PE, owner of Capstone Development Honduras meant a new mix of faculty and Group. Leading by Example students this year. The only participants with Before each trip, students learn to approach On each trip, student leaders help oversee any previous experience at Amigos de Jesus projects as “partnerships” with local communi - projects, manage the group dynamic, serve were four students, including Lauren Havener ties. “We’re not about imposing external ideas as liaisons to faculty advisors and local CE ’11. With no playbook for the group to on local organizations. It’s important that communities, and organize evening reflections. refer to as they set out to design and install a students learn the value of supporting local “The student leaders really set an example water filtration system and build a basketball solutions and to see how engineering expertise of engagement with the tasks at hand and court, Havener drew on previous experience can play a part in that,” says Jordan Ermilio, enthusiasm for the goals of the trip that seems to help the group navigate the basics of the Engineering Service Coordinator and Adjunct to infect the rest of the group. Leading by orphanage, share lessons learned from the Professor of Mechanical Engineering. example is how I would characterize it,” previous year, and help get the input they Once the initial shock of being in unfamiliar says Dr. Gabriele. needed from staff . “I was able to help because territory subsides, there’s real work to be done, Rory Kotter ME ’11, a veteran of the I was already comfortable there; I understood and it’s up to the students to choose the best Villanova chapter of Engineers Without the community better and knew how to get course of action. “The faculty takes great pains Borders (an international, non-profit organiza - help when we needed it,” says Havener. to allow the students to identify possible tion that partners with communities world- In Panama, student leader Eric Nolan ME projects. As instructors, our role is to ensure wide to improve their quality of life), used his ’11 focused on what he calls “the human as - that there is significant engineering content to previous experience with water system develop - pect” of leading. “I realized there are small the project. As advisors, we help to facilitate ment in Thailand and Kenya to help lead the things you can do to make a difference – even the design process, but if we manage the trip in Waslala. “Through EWB, I’ve learned something as simple as smiling,” says Nolan. projects like a classroom, we might miss out to be comfortable when I’m out of my element “Or, if you’re trying to communicate, you on the next best idea for these communities,” or trying to connect with local communities in should try your hardest. Even though my says Ermilio. other countries,” says Kotter. “That experience Spanish was poor as we surveyed local families “Being able to make the decisions as helped me be a better resource to the team. I about water needs, I kept trying, and the students has a big impact. You’re able to say could offer advice about design work based on people really appreciated it. I just tried to ‘I designed this’ for people who don’t have the what I had already learned in the field or help demonstrate the need for patience, understand - technical background that we have,” says answer questions about the sensitivities and ing, and having a good attitude.”
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Going Pro Engineering students also put their leadership skills to work for each other, from running project competition groups and student government organizations, to discipline-specific honor societies and peer mentoring groups. The students who lead the Villanova chapters of professional engineering organizations try to give their fellow students tools they can use for life after college, including mentoring opportunities, professional networks, internship and career resources, and more.
American Institute of Chemical Engineering (AIChE) “We want to help chemical engineers start good relationships early on in This year, Villanova’s AIChE hosted a student workshop on their careers,” says Erik Sheets interviewing skills, sponsored by the local AIChE Delaware ChE ’10, president. “The AIChE Valley section. Student members of the AIChE also have opens up opportunities for students access to exclusive conferences for students, which to find summer research and provide access to high-profile speakers, chemical engineer - internships.” ing trade shows, online career fairs, alumni networking receptions, and graduate school fairs.
“At Villanova, the IEEE offers Institute for Electrical and Electronics members a network,” says Co-Chair Engineers (IEEE) Sonia Guleria EE ’10. That network can open doors to new professional The IEEE organizes tours of companies like Boeing in Students often make personal connections with local children. connections, career opportunities, Ridley Park, Pa., and the Exelon nuclear reactor in and different avenues to consider. Limerick, Pa. It also hosts information sessions, where Closer Connections companies like Schlumberger, which provides project management and information solutions to members of the oil and gas industry, discuss The students and faculty who participate in opportunities in the field. The group also welcomes speakers from other types of service-learning trips together develop relation - organizations, such as financial services firms, which helps electrical engineers ships based on opportunities for unique consider other career avenues. collaborations. “It was so impressive that they went with us, especially the deans, who at other universities might seem invisible to the student American Society for Civil Engineers (ASCE) “The speakers give us face time with body,” says Kotter. “We were all able to operate working professionals who can tell us on the same level because we all had the same “The ASCE looks for ways to connect students with about their experience in ‘the real goals.” professionals,” says Maggie Carragher CE ’11, world.’ These speakers can also help Havener agrees. “Allowing the students to president. The organization hosts several guest open doors to internships or other lead the projects gives the faculty a chance to see speakers per semester, giving members access to civil networking opportunities,” says us in a different light,” she says. “The work is engineers from a variety of settings, including private Maggie Carragher CE ’11. more collaborative than in class.” companies, consulting firms, and government bodies. “Having the faculty and deans along gives us a chance to make more personal connections and breaks down the walls between ‘student/teacher’ “We're all about connecting the American Society of Mechanical Engineering relationships,” says Nolan, who also appreciated underclassmen in mechanical (ASME) the exposure to faculty he hasn’t studied with engineering with the upperclass - before. “I got to know Dr. Jones very well on my men,” says Emily Wakelin ME ’10, Cross-year relationship-building holds many benefits. trip. He’s an incredible source of information, co-president. “Upperclassmen, who know the lay of the land better, and I learned a classroom’s worth of information can serve as mentors to younger students, even for just by talking to him. I hope to have him as things outside of engineering,” says Emily Wakelin ME ’10. ASME facilitates the process a teacher!” at monthly meetings, special events, and field trips to inspiring places like the American Helicopter Museum in West Chester, Pa., or the Comcast Center in Philadelphia. To learn more about these and other student service-learning trips, visit To learn more about the College’s student organizations, visit www.Villanova.edu/Engineering/Service www.Villanova.edu/Engineering/Organizations
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LIFE-SAVING SOLAR SOLUTIONS Engineering Faculty and Students Help Expand the Impact of the Solar Suitcase by Christopher Murray
Observation sparks innovation. This simple philosophy is saving lives around the world and, thanks to a chance meeting, Villanova University engineering students are collaborators in the process.
2008 During a trip to Nigeria, Dr. Laura Stachel witnessed the devastating impact unreliable electricity has on maternal mortal - ity rates. An obstetrician/gynecologist, Dr. Stachel saw firsthand the dangerous conditions women often face while going through childbirth in developing countries. Doctors were working by candlelight or kerosene lamp. Expectant mothers were turned away from hospitals with no electricity. Engineering graduate students are collaborating with the founders of WE CARE Solar to optimize the design of the Solar Suitcase, which Power outages made it nearly impossible to provides reliable electricity to health clinics in developing countries. address complications during labor such as massive bleeding, obstructive labor, seizures, sufficient power in a lightweight system.” the horrifying maternal mortality statistics,” and infection. Lives were lost when appropri - The result was the Solar Suitcase, a portable says Dr. Singh. “When I realized the dramatic ate emergency care could not be provided. photovoltaic system that powers lighting for impact low-power energy and communication Dr. Stachel returned to the United States treatments and surgeries, mobile communica - technology could have, I realized our students committed to solving this infrastructure tions, and essential medical devices. could help save lives by harnessing the problem. She didn’t have to look far, partner - Manufactured to fit inside a standard piece potential of solar energy.” ing with Dr. Hal Aronson, her husband of luggage, the solar suitcase provides 12 volts At a follow-up IEEE Humanitarian and an expert in solar electricity. of electricity for up to 50 hours after spending Technology Challenge Solutions Workshop Soon thereafter, the two founded the one full day in the sun. “It offers both direc - in October, Dr. Singh approached Dr. Stachel nonprofit organization Women’s Emergency tional and ambient light, to help perform about a partnership with Villanova. Communication and Reliable Electricity, surgery; it also charges tools such as walkie “I saw an opportunity to do further engi - also known as WE CARE Solar. talkies, which enable real-time communica - neering of their design,” says Dr. Singh. “I tion and response in healthcare facilities,” says was confident we could come up with the The Solar Suitcase Dr. Aronson. “And getting the Solar Suitcase next generation of the Solar Suitcase and help Before Drs. Stachel and Aronson could address to these countries is simple; it’s a carryon bag.” improve its performance.” challenges overseas, they needed to consider 2009 Ask and the Door Shall Be Opened one oft-ignored reality. Much of the electrical equipment sent to developing countries goes Dr. Pritpal Singh, Chair of the Department Graduate students in the College of Engineer - unused, due to inability to operate and fix of Electrical and Computer Engineering, at - ing are currently working on designing more complicated machinery. tended the Institute of Electrical and Electron - advanced components for the Solar Suitcase. “We discussed matching solar energy with ics Engineers “Humanitarian Technology “The Solar Suitcase is doing great things, and efficient appliances,” Dr. Aronson says. “We Challenge Conference,” where Dr. Stachel there is more room for improvement,” says knew there had to be a less complicated way presented the Solar Suitcase and its impact Dr. Singh. “The design is not yet optimized.” to bring electricity to these countries – to on maternal health in northern Nigeria. It didn’t take long to get started. minimize the wiring, while still providing “I was drawn to the project when I heard “We met with Villanova’s graduate stu -
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In one small hospital in northern Nigeria, women were dying during childbirth at the rate of 1x per month; the Solar Suitcase contributed to a reduced rate of one death every three to six months. “The Solar Suitcase is doing great things, and there is more room for improvement,” says Dr. Singh.
dents of engineering to discuss what improve - ments we could make to the functionality and efficiency of the Solar Suitcase,” Dr. Aronson adds. “We are encouraging them to look at the product, understand the needs of the communities they are serving, and allow that to guide their ingenuity.” Dr. Singh is currently overseeing three students who are working to improve how the solar panel, battery, and control module interface. The students are thrilled to have the opportunity to work on a real-world applica - tion, where they are truly making a difference. “They are excited to develop an engineering product that can be used to improve maternal healthcare and reduce mortality rates,” says Dr. Singh. “This work is very impactful, tangible, and practical for the students; it inspires and motivates them.” In addition to improving the Solar Suitcase, Villanova students will be designing high- efficiency and low-power devices that can run on the same voltage as the Solar Suitcase, including ultrasound equipment, fetal heart monitors, oxygen delivery systems, and sterilization and suctioning equipment.
Why Villanova? So what attracted two doctors from San Fran - cisco to a University rooted in Augustinian values just outside of Philadelphia? “We love the University,” says Dr. Stachel. “There is a top engineering school, a top nursing school, an appreciation for entrepre - Dr. Hal Aronson and Dr. Laura Stachel, founders of WE CARE Solar, developed a photovoltaic system that powers lighting, mobile communications, and essential medical devices – that fits in a carryon suitcase. neurship, a mission for public service, and a commitment to peace and justice. Everything The Future adds Dr. Singh. “We want to continue bring - that touches our mission, Villanova brings ing hope to economically depressed areas by to the table.” WE CARE Solar hopes to continue improv - providing access to renewable energy and All of this made Villanova a great home for ing speed of communication, machinery and improved healthcare.” WE CARE Solar. technology, and even medical care protocols “Our goal is to develop equipment that “With Pritpal’s vision, we see a lot of potential with training material such as DVDs, in marries well with the skill sets of the locals,” here to develop more products,” says Dr. Stachel. developing countries. “We are very excited concludes Dr. Aronson. “Ultimately, we want “Pritpal has an amazing capacity to make things to have such highly qualified engineering to bring our knowledge to people in other happen, and we look forward to partnering with students and faculty focusing on this countries. The ability to assemble and main - Villanova to perform important public service in important social issue,” Dr. Stachel says. tain this equipment should contribute to developing countries. This is a real platform for “One of our hopes is to organize formal economic development and will ensure that improving maternal healthcare.” funding to support and further this initiative,” the equipment will be maintained.”
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UNDER THE SEA Underwater Robotics Competition Held at Villanova Steers Kids Toward Engineering
by Debbie Clayton
When the School District of Philadelphia approached Dr. “Nat” Nataraj, Chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, last fall to ask if Villanova could host an underwater robotics competition in the Student teams from high school robotics clubs put their remote operated vehicles (ROVs) to the test in Villanova’s Olympic-sized swimming pool. spring, his response was, “How soon Dr. Nataraj and James O’Brien, research Dr. Nataraj and other faculty within Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineer - the College’s Center for Nonlinear Dynamics can we begin?” The program, called ing, have provided curriculum development and Control had been doing with the U.S. Marine Advanced Technology Education for the SeaPerch competition, a national un - Navy on unmanned vehicles. derwater robotics competition geared toward “We need to level the playing field for (MATE), seemed like a logical progression middle and high school students throughout many kids who don’t have access to some of of the College of Engineering’s extensive the region. But the MATE program repre - the better schools – and programs like MATE sented a more sophisticated version of go a long way toward doing this,” says Dr. participation in community outreach SeaPerch, focusing mostly on high school and Nataraj, who regularly visits area schools to programs. college students and taking the contest to the talk about engineering. “So many kids are not next level. Plus, it dovetailed nicely with aware of what science and engineering are
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MATE teams guided their ROVs into underwater targets.
all about. These types of programs alert them responded to that.” Guiding the Next Generation to the potential opportunities that exist. With a grant from the Office of Naval Granted, there’s only so much science you can Research (ONR), Dr. Nataraj and O’Brien Joe Cunningham spent a week at the teach them through a competition. The real plunged headfirst into the MATE program, MATE Center in Monterey, Calif., last sum - value, however, is that they get exposure – coordinating student mentors to help teams, mer, learning how to build a MATE ROV in and it’s a glimpse at the excitement of the developing curricular materials for the teach - world of engineering.” ers, and organizing two professional days at preparation for the MATE competition at One of many Villanova initiatives that Villanova to help teachers learn how they Villanova. A biology teacher at Murrell seek to enhance STEM (science, technology, could better coach their teams. Dobbins Career and Technical Education engineering, and math) education, MATE “The ultimate goal of the MATE program High School in Philadelphia, Cunningham strives to help prepare America’s future is to increase awareness of marine technical started the school’s robotics club 10 years workforce for ocean-related occupations. fields,” says Dr. Nataraj. “But it also helps The program is part of Villanova’s commit - students develop the skills necessary to work ago and has run it ever since. ment to a national endeavor geared to as a team, solve problems, enhance critical “I’ve organized teams for the SeaPerch increasing America’s global competitiveness thinking, and improve ‘soft’ – but important competition, so it was natural for me to through improving interest and education – skills such as effective communication and move on to the MATE competition,” in the sciences. project management.” says Cunningham, who just finished his For the competition, teams of students Regionally, the MATE competition fielded developed remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) two types of teams – Scout and Ranger. Scout 11th year of teaching. “Velda Morris and put them through their paces in an teams were similar to SeaPerch teams, where gave us supplies to get started, but we underwater setting – in this case, Villanova’s the students actually get into the pool with were free to build the ROV using any Olympic-sized pool. They also presented a tech - their ROVs. Ranger teams had higher criteria materials we chose.” nical report, underwent an engineering evalua - and were subjected to more complex tasks and Cunningham’s Ranger team of 10 tion, and displayed a poster of their project. missions. They guided the ROVs using cameras and hydrophones. students included 10th, 11th, and 12th International Competition Hosting such a huge competition required graders. His school teaches business, New to Pennsylvania, MATE is an interna - a massive organizational effort from Morris cosmetology, fashion design, culinary arts, tional competition with 19 regions participat - and the Villanova team. “Safety first was our and computer sciences. Surprisingly, a ing. Spearheaded regionally by Velda Morris, a motto,” Dr. Nataraj says. “We had some 50 few of the most involved students on his robotics education specialist with the School volunteers managing logistics, props, food, District of Philadelphia’s Secondary Robotics technical aspects, judging, and you name it! MATE team were girls in the fashion Initiative, the MATE competition took place Our chief engineer and right-hand man was design sequence. on May 22. Some 34 teams descended on Eric Baker, a mechanical engineering student “Programs like MATE accomplish the Villanova from Delaware, Maryland, New who graduated in May.” objectives of STEM since we are using Jersey, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina for Villanova will host the regional competi - scientific principles like thrust, buoyancy, the regional event. The top two teams went tion again next year – a reward for a job well on the international MATE competition in done. “As educators, it’s our mission to widen and propulsion and doing a lot of elec - Hilo, Hawaii, in June. the community to whom we teach,” adds tronic things that most kids aren’t “This program was layered beautifully Dr. Nataraj. “Education is not limited to the exposed to in high school,” says among the high school students, the teachers, few people who come into our classroom – Cunningham. “My students got experi - the Villanova students, the Mechanical we have a societal responsibility, too.” ences through MATE that they wouldn’t Engineering Department, and the industry folks who came out to judge,” explains For more information about the have gotten anywhere else. In fact, most Morris. “My promotional flyer said, ‘Come College’s community outreach, visit of my students in the robotics program make history with us,’ and people really www.Villanova.edu/Engineering/Service go on to college – frequently in technical areas.”
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If you’re an alumnus, you can help us shape the next generation of Villanova Engineers. Consider these 10 easy ways to strengthen your ties to the College and your fellow Wildcats:
• Join the Villanova Engineering Alumni Society, which supports academic programs and offers networking opportunities for members. • Connect with the University’s Career Services Center to make them aware of internship and career opportunities within your organization for new engineers – and to secure the best new engineering talent for your company. • Mentor an undergraduate to share your insights as a seasoned professional and help a new engineer prepare for life after graduation. • Contribute financially to the College of Engineering, which will support the College’s goal of becoming a premier engineering program in the country. • Sponsor a project for the upcoming Multidisciplinary Design Lab, designed to give students real-world research experience for industry. • Establish a Villanova Corporate Alumni Partnership within your organization to bring together fellow alumni for timely updates from the College, professional development and networking opportunities, and the chance to build a Villanova identity within your company. • Visit the College of Engineering’s websit e for news and information about student programs and achievements; faculty research, recognition, and accomplishments; and special events. • Host an information session for students at your company, or serve as a guest speaker for one of the student branches of professional engineering societies. • Share information about opportunities for sponsored research or faculty fellowships available within your company. • Follow the College’s news and updates via Facebook and LinkedIn (coming this fall!). Next steps… • For more information about the College of Engineering, visit www.Engineering.Villanova.edu. • For inquiries about alumni events or involvement, visit www.Villanova.edu. • To make a financial contribution, contact Cynthia Rutenbar, Director of Major Giving ([email protected]) or Lisa Kailian, Major Gifts Officer ([email protected]). • For inquiries about the Villanova Corporate Alumni Partnership or questions regarding corporate partnerships or research, contact Burton Lane, Director of External Relations ([email protected]). • To serve as a student mentor or to connect with student organizations, contact Gayle Doyle, Administrator of Student Support Programs ([email protected]).
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Whether you want to advance in your job, gain technical expertise, or embark on a new career path, a master’s degree or certificate from Villanova’s College of Engineering will help you achieve your dream.
With classes available on campus and through our award-winning Distance Education program, you can earn your degree...
in your TIME in your SPACE and at your PACE
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COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
800 LANCASTER AVENUE VILLANOVA, PA 19085 610.519.4940 610.519.5859 Fax www.engineering.villanova.edu